Cierra Smith is about to embark on a journey that aligns perfectly with her passion for zoological medicine. As a first-generation college graduate, her upcoming graduation marks a significant milestone in her life, and her dedication to veterinary medicine is evident in her chosen path.
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Post-Graduation Plans
Cierra has a clear plan for her future, starting with an internship that will help her gain additional crucial experience for her desired specialization in zoological medicine. "First, I'll complete my 6-month internship after graduation and then apply for an academic year-long rotating internship. I'm hopeful to take these steps to pursue my special interest in zoological medicine," she shares. Cierra's rotating internship at Reid Park Zoo and VCA Civano Animal Hospital & Emergency Center will allow her to work with various species, a key element of her career aspirations in zoological medicine.
Educational Influence on Career Path
Cierra's education has been instrumental in shaping her career goals. "I have loved learning about all of the species differences when it comes to our systems courses and am always eager to discuss comparative medicine with colleagues. I aim to pursue a career path that can accommodate these interests, specifically zoological medicine—being able to work with a variety of species while simultaneously helping contribute to their conservation is my dream job!" she explains. Cierra has also developed a strong interest in surgery and anesthesia, which she hopes to incorporate into her career through occasional relief shelter medicine or volunteering for low-cost spay/neuter clinics.
The challenges and growth opportunities that come with internships excite Cierra the most. "Although I know internships are incredibly hard work, I am truly looking forward to my intern years. I have been told by many veterinarians that this is when they felt they grew the most as clinicians and that those years truly made them into the doctors they are today. I hope to share that sentiment and become a sponge in the clinic to absorb as much information as possible from highly trained doctors in their respective fields!" she says.
Clinical Year Experiences
Cierra's clinical year has been diverse and enriching, allowing her to explore various fields of veterinary medicine. "Due to having a distributive model for clinical rotations, I was able to select rotations for myself that allowed me to experience diverse fields of veterinary medicine and fulfill my multi-species passion. I have rotated through zoos, large animal referral hospitals, small animal emergency clinics, laboratory medicine settings, exotic companion animal clinics, humane societies, low-cost clinics—you name it! I have learned so much from every rotation," she reflects. These experiences have expanded her clinical knowledge and shaped her understanding of what she values in a work environment and how she envisions her future team dynamics.
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First-Generation Graduate: A Personal Triumph
Graduating as the first in her family to attend college is a powerful and emotional achievement for Cierra. "As a first-generation college student, my upcoming graduation is so powerful to me, and it means more than I can put into words. Graduating with my Bachelor's degree was already a huge personal milestone in this regard, but being able to add 'Dr.' in front of my name gives me an indescribable feeling," she shares. This accomplishment is a testament to her tenacity and determination, as well as the support of her family, who have encouraged her every step of the way.
Cierra offers heartfelt advice for those in a similar situation: "Even when things get hard mentally, physically, or financially, your mindset and determination will win through. Don't let rejection deter you from the path that's meant for you; try to persevere and see it through for yourself. Additionally, nobody's opinion about you and your capabilities will ever amount to the strength of having self-determination. Drown out any negative noise and stay focused on your goals and milestones—you've got this!"
Wisdom for New Students
Cierra emphasizes the importance of curiosity and collaboration in veterinary school. "Never be afraid to ask questions—whether that is to your professors, your mentors, technicians, students in other classes, or even your own classmates. A question not asked is knowledge lost. On the same note, make sure to encourage others' learning and share your knowledge with those around you. Veterinary medicine is a beautiful profession where there is always more to be educated on—make sure to help others just as others have helped you along this path," she advises.
A Passion for Education
Cierra's love for education has been a significant part of her veterinary school experience. "I have been a UA CVM tutor for the past three years of veterinary school and have loved being able to help the learning of both my peers and those in classes below me. Tutoring is something that I have been passionate about for nearly six years now, and it has truly shaped aspects of my future, specifically the goal of pursuing an educational position later on in my veterinary career. I hope to eventually transition into education after many years in medicine to help teach new generations of student doctors!" she says.
Looking Ahead
As Cierra Smith prepares to embark on her internships, she carries with her a passion for zoological medicine, a dedication to education, and the resilience of a first-generation college graduate. Her journey is just beginning, and she is ready to make a meaningful impact on the world of veterinary medicine, one species at a time.
